Safety is our number one priority for our students, staff, and school communities.
That’s why we encourage everyone to speak up if they see or hear something suspicious. One of the easiest ways to report concerns is through FortifyFL, a suspicious activity reporting tool that instantly relays information to appropriate law enforcement agencies and school officials.
FortifyFL was created and funded by the Florida Legislature in 2018 as part of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act.
Submitting a tip is simple. Follow the four-step process online or through the app to report suspicious activity. You can choose to include your contact information or remain completely anonymous. The tool also allows users to access previous tips and submit updates or additional information.
Download the FortifyFL app today through the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, or learn more at GetFortifyFL.com.
HALF-PENNY SALES TAX REFERENDUM
We are proud that Hillsborough County Public Schools continues to be the #1 choice for families in our community. That success is possible because of the incredible support we receive from our families and community members.
One example of this support is the half-penny sales tax referendum approved by voters in 2018. At that time, our district faced more than $1 billion in deferred maintenance. Many schools needed immediate A/C replacements, roof and window repairs, and other facilities and technology upgrades.
Thanks to voters, the half-penny referendum provided funding to address these needs, with a promise that every school would receive at least $500,000 in improvements. Since then, more than $1.2 billion has been invested in school facilities, safety, and technology across the district. More than $680 million of that work was awarded to local businesses, supporting jobs in our community.
We are grateful for your continued support. If you would like more information about the referendum and the projects it has funded, please visit the district’s website >> https://www.hillsboroughschools.org/o/hcps/page/half-penny-sales-tax-referendum
These heartfelt messages and creations are a small way to thank our veterans for their service, sacrifice, and dedication to our country.
Episode 16: Getting to Graduation
Our district has reached the highest graduation rate in our history — 90.9 percent, and when looking at traditional high schools alone, that number climbs to 93 percent! Behind every one of those percentages is a student, a story, and a team of educators working together to help that student reach one of the most meaningful milestones in their academic journey — walking across the stage to receive their diploma. Joining the podcast today to talk about the work that happens behind the scenes to make that moment possible is Christina Raburn, Executive Director for High School Education.
More information about the More to the Story podcast>>
Through hands-on activities focused on self-love, resilience, financial wellness, confidence, and future planning, students were reminded that their journey does not end with early motherhood, but it evolves into a story of strength, determination, and purpose.
The event created a supportive space where these young women could reflect on how far they’ve come, celebrate their accomplishments, and feel empowered for what lies ahead.
We are so proud of these incredible students and the perseverance they continue to show every day!
About half of the plants for sale were grown right in the school’s nursery, and all proceeds directly support the FFA program. The sale is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and wraps up for the season on Saturday, May 16.
Be sure to stop by, shop local and support these hardworking students! 🌿
Each year, students are invited to submit original artwork and poetry focused on waste reduction and environmental responsibility.
This year's winners are:
🎨 Art: Ariana Mendiola-Monrroy, Roland Park K–8 School
📝 Poetry: Henry Luksik, Roland Park K–8 School
🎨 Art: Swaroopini Meenakshi, Roland Park K–8 School
📝 Poetry: Olivia Joyner, Roland Park K–8 School
🎨 Art: Bella Guzman, Blake High School
The winning artwork will be displayed on a recycling collection truck for one year, while the winning poetry will be showcased at Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park alongside the Tampa River Center Building.
Only 11 more school days left! 😱
To our graduates, congratulations on this incredible achievement! Your determination, resilience and hard work have inspired us all. We are proud of everything you have accomplished and cannot wait to see what your future holds. 💙✨
After the mission, the patches will be returned to the students along with embossed certificates verifying that their artwork flew in space.
Marshall Middle Magnet IB World School’s Symphonic Strings, Symphonic Band, Jazz Band, and Wind Ensemble delivered an unforgettable Spring Concert with the premiere of "Common Ground," a newly commissioned musical work honoring the history, culture, and legacy of Plant City. 🎶🍓
The piece featured three powerful movements:
🌱 Cultivo — recognizing the agricultural roots and cultivation that helped build Plant City
🚂 Union — honoring the historic Plant City Union Depot and the idea of cultures and communities coming together with a shared purpose
🤝 Bing — paying tribute to the resilience, culture, and contributions of Plant City’s African American community
We are incredibly proud of our talented students and dedicated Marshall staff for producing such meaningful and impactful work. This performance beautifully showcased how music can preserve history, celebrate community, and inspire future generations!
🎓 Congratulations to the incredible graduates of the Class of 2026 from Caminiti Exceptional Student Education Center! Your determination, resilience and spirit have inspired us all. ❤️
“Your journey may look different than others, but your strength, courage and heart have made a difference in this world.” – Nadia Combs
Congratulations to the four incredible students from LaVoy Exceptional Student Education Center recognized this afternoon! 🎉
“Never forget that you are valued, you are loved and you are capable of bringing light to everyone around you.” — Nadia Combs 💙✨
Your hard work, perseverance and spirit continue to inspire us all!
Episode 15: Voices from the School Board: Patti Rendon
For this episode, School Board Member Patti Rendon joins us to talk about something that plays a critical role in the success of our schools — advocacy. Behind every program, every opportunity, and every support system for students, there are leaders working to ensure schools have the resources they need to serve children well — not just at the local level, but at the state and federal levels, too.
Listen on your favorite podcast platform and subscribe so you don’t miss upcoming episodes! 🎙️
Superintendent Ayres and our Teacher of the Year, Christi Atkinson, surprised her during her planning period today!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-2fauFcnvo
Superintendent Ayres and our Teacher of the Year, Christi Atkinson, surprised her just a few hours ago!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRZfCkjSDQw
Superintendent Ayres and our Teacher of the Year, Christi Atkinson, surprised her with the prize!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SmR33rHjGXU
Congratulations to Janice Bigio, an art teacher at Foster Elementary School! She was one of five winners of a one-year membership to BubbleDown Carwash and a $50 RaceTrac gift card for Teacher Appreciation Week!
